Pinch Points and Hand injuries for Oil and Gas Manufacturing Training Course

A pinch point is any location where two objects come together, posing a risk of trapping body parts, most commonly fingers and hands. Injuries can range from minor cuts, bruises, and blisters to severe lacerations, broken bones, or amputations. This training covers the hazards of pinch points and hand injuries in oil and gas manufacturing and emphasizes prevention through awareness, proper procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

To reduce risk, employers should identify and clearly mark pinch points, perform hand safety site analyses, and implement safety protocols, including lock-out/tag-out procedures and proper use of machine guards. Employees should follow all established policies, participate in safety meetings, and maintain situational awareness at all times. Choosing the right gloves is critical; high-performance, task-specific gloves, such as thermoplastic rubber for impact protection or cut-resistant gloves rated for durability, help protect hands while allowing dexterity. Gloves must fit properly, be highly visible, and meet OSHA requirements for tasks with severe injury potential.

Advances in technology, such as remote control pipe handling systems and “hands-free” load policies, have reduced exposure to pinch point hazards. However, nothing replaces vigilance. Workers must keep their hands visible, avoid placing them near moving parts, refrain from wearing jewelry or loose clothing, and never leave machines in motion unattended.

This course will teach you about pinch point hazards and how to avoid hand injuries. By understanding pinch points, using proper PPE, and following safe work practices, employees can significantly reduce the risk of hand and finger injuries, keeping themselves safe both on the job and in everyday life.

This program is available with Spanish and French closed captions.